from http://www.lef.org/protocols/prtcl-160.shtml#introduction
The Best Way to Fast
Authorities agree that juice fasting is the best, safest, and most effective method of fasting. The classic form of fasting extended, (pure water fast) introduces considerable toxins into the bloodstream and has been discredited as the best form of fasting. A water fast is often too debilitating. When fresh fruit and vegetable juices, alkalizing vegetable broths, and herbal teas are used, electrolytes are maintained. The faster receives a daily infusion of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Freshly prepared juices require no digestion and are easily assimilated. Juices do not disrupt the healing and rejuvenating effects of autolysis (self-digestion). By providing about 400 calories per day, the release of toxins from fat cells is more gradual than a strict water fast.
Do not chew gum while fasting; it promotes release of digestive enzymes. During a fast, the stomach is void of solid foods so enzymes can injure the stomach lining. Avoid mints and hard candies. Following the fast, there is a loss of appetite for caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, sugar, and junk foods.
>Typically, a well-planned fast allows normal workload, exercise, and study habits. During a fast, walking and deep-breathing exercises provide fresh air to cleanse the blood, effectively regenerating and revitalizing body functions. It is important to get rest, especially when fatigued. Some fasters prefer a weekend fast with less demanding schedules.
Fasting to Lose Weight
The reason for a fast should be to regain lost energy, heighten clarity of consciousness, enhance innate spirituality, cleanse, rest, regenerate, and rejuvenate the body along with the weight loss. A prolonged fast should result in the loss of about 5-7 pounds of fecal material from the colon, but this amount is quickly regained upon feeding. It is also common to detoxify 5-10 pounds of toxic substances (FCI 2003). Although a short fast of 3-5 days may not accomplish a lot, it is the safest recommendation. It has taken years to wear the body down, and will take time to restore it to peak condition. Recall that a short fast can be repeated several times per year to optimize benefits. Consult with your physician to determine if your health precludes a fast. If under the care of an experienced health provider, a longer fast may be considered.
Recommended Liquid Intake while Fasting
Opinions vary on the amount of liquid to consume while juice fasting. Some recommend at least eight, 8-ounce glasses of distilled water per day, two cups of herbal tea, along with diluted juices (Balch et al. 19 7 97). Regardless of your fitness goal, make sure you drink enough water daily. Many diseases respond to adequate hydration, flushing out disease-provoking toxins. An easy formula for calculating your daily water requirements is to take your weight, divide it in half, then consume that amount of water (or juice), generally 9 to 10 glasses daily. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages will dehydrate, so for every glass of these beverages you drink, you need to add an extra glass of water (Airola 1977; Balch et al.1997; Woman's World 2001; Horowitz 2002).
Drink freshly prepared juice made from a combination of any of the following (ideally organic) fruits and vegetables: spinach, dandelion, parsley, kale, celery, apples (with seeds and skin), and carrots. Raw fruits and vegetables are perfectly compatible when eaten together. Melons are the exception. Making the entire meal melon is an option. If refined sugar or flour is eaten during the same meal with fruits (except bananas, dates, figs, or raisins), within an hour or two, the sugars and starches will ferment in the digestive tract and cause acidosis (Walker 1986). Another juice combination may be prepared from three carrots, two stalks of celery, one turnip, two beets, one-half head of cabbage, a quarter bunch of parsley, and a clove of garlic (Healing Celebrations 2002). Other juice detoxifiers include fresh lemon, grape, and green drinks (prepared from leafy green vegetables). Dilute all juice with water (1:3 parts) and drink throughout the day. Avoid orange or tomato juice (because of their high acidity) and avoid using sweetened juices.
There are a number of juicers that are ideal for home application, but Champion Juicers (Albion Enterprises, 800-248 - 1475) is an excellent choice. During the fast, select juicing materials and teas that are specific to your health conditions (Balch et al. 1997; Horowitz 2001). For example:
- Freshly prepared cabbage juice is excellent for ulcers, cancer, and colon problems. Do not store cabbage juice because its vitamin U content can be quickly lost. (Vitamin U, named for its ulcer applications, is found in cabbage juice and responsible for healing ulcers in the digestive tract.)
- Alfalfa, burdock, chamomile, dandelion, milk thistle, red clover, and rose hips tea may be used to rejuvenate the liver and cleanse the bloodstream.
- Two parts pau d'arco and echinacea tea mixed with one part unsweetened cranberry juice assists in rebuilding the immune system, improving bladder function, and ridding the colon of unwanted bacteria.
- Peppermint tea has a calming, yet strengthening effect upon the nerves. It is excellent for nausea, indigestion, and flatulence.
- Slippery elm reduces inflammation in the colon. The tea is also beneficial when used as an enema.
- Pure vegetable broths (with no seasonings added) are excellent additions to a fast. Prepare them by gently simmering the vegetables in water until tender (garlic and onion may be added for taste and healing properties). The blended or strained broths may be consumed 2-3 times per day. If you must eat, select a slice of watermelon (eaten alone). Fresh applesauce (blended with skins) is satisfying and will not disrupt the fast (Healing Celebrations 2002).